Claudin-5 (CLDN5) mRNA (CLDN5 mRNA)

Claudin-5 is a critical transmembrane protein that constitutes the primary seal of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) tight junctions (UniProt P56748). It is encoded by the CLDN5 gene and is predominantly expressed in endothelial cells of the brain vasculature. Its primary biological function is to regulate the paracellular permeability of the BBB, specifically restricting the passage of small molecules into the central nervous system (PubMed: 25733869). Dysregulation of Claudin-5 mRNA and protein levels is linked to various neurological and psychiatric conditions, including schizophrenia, where reduced expression is observed, and stroke, where its degradation leads to brain edema (PubMed: 28733354). Therapeutic strategies targeting Claudin-5 mRNA include the use of siRNA or antisense oligonucleotides to transiently open the BBB for drug delivery (PubMed: 21321569). Alternatively, gene therapy approaches aim to restore or overexpress Claudin-5 in conditions where the barrier is compromised. However, modulating this target carries significant safety risks, as prolonged BBB disruption can lead to neurotoxicity and inflammatory infiltration. Monitoring Claudin-5 levels in serum or using imaging to assess BBB integrity are essential for evaluating the efficacy and safety of such interventions (PubMed: 30104354).

Other names

CLDN5Transmembrane protein deleted in VCFSTMVCFBEC1Claudin 5

RNA interference (RNAi) or antisense inhibition to modulate protein expression levels